Let’s say you are spending a nice Saturday at the farmer’s market with a friend. All is going well until you get back to your car and see that your taillight and bumper have been damaged. Someone hit your parked car and drove away. What next? Continue reading this blog to learn some tips and more information on what to do about a hit and run accident.

Hit and Run Accidents

A hit and run accident is when a person causes an accident and then leaves the scene without fulfilling the duties required by law. If a driver hits a parked car, he or she is legally required to make a reasonable effort to identify the owner of the vehicle and leave a written note. However, it is important to know that every state has its own laws when it comes to hit and run accidents.

What To Do Immediately At the Scene

Follow these steps below to protect yourself in the event your vehicle is damaged by a hit and run driver:

Stay at the scene: While it may tempt you to drive off to try and catch the hit and run driver, you may end up losing important evidence by leaving the scene. Be sure to stay until you have gathered up all the essential evidence.

Find and speak to any witnesses: Seek the names and contact information of any witnesses.

File a police report: Most states require you to file a police report – even if the hit and run driver leaves a written note. This police report is also often used to preserve any evidence at the scene.

Take a note of the time and location: Be sure to document the time and location of the incident.

Take photos and/ or video: Photos and videos of the scene can serve as solid evidence. Be sure to take multiple pictures from various angles, including larger shots and close-ups. Look out for evidence of the other car’s painting or marks and take close-up photos of this evidence as well.

Contact your insurance company: It is important that you reach out to your insurance company and let them know that you’ve been in an accident. Do this sooner rather than later, as this will help speed up your claim.

Filing a Hit and Run Claim

If you identify the hit and run driver, be sure to get his or her insurance company information. Then, file a third-party claim with his or her insurance company. By filing a third-party claim, you will cover the damages to your vehicle with their insurance.

However, if you’re unable to find the person who hit your car, file a claim with your own insurance company. Uninsured motorist coverage compensates you for hit and run accidents. Some states do not even require you to have uninsured motorist coverage. Be sure to check with your insurance company to see what your coverage will help out with.